South Texas serves as the intersection point for the Brush Country, the Coastal Plains and Marshes, and the Gulf Beaches and includes unique habitats such as the Texas Sand Sheet. Symposium 2013 will provide an overview of the ecoregions and their evolution during historical times while also providing an understanding of the effects of current stresses such as climate change, urban sprawl, invasive plants, and general habitat destruction. Ongoing efforts at habitat preservation and restoration will be examined along with some encouraging success stories. Because South Texas habitats continue to suffer under exceptional drought conditions, we will feature a review of water issues in the region. Finally, our diverse break-out session presentations will feature an array of topics ranging from the above themes to native plant gardening, sustainability, and other native plant related subjects.

Underwriting support is welcomed! In an effort to attract more students and educators, the Society will once again offer scholarships to qualified applicants. Supporting the attendance of educators and students (our future members!) ensures the future of the Society and the vitality of our mission statement. When renewing your membership, please consider making a small donation to support the symposium. Your gracious donations will help meet our goal of educating future native plant lovers and leaders. If you work or have worked for a corporation that will match your non-profit donation, then please remember to exercise that option and double your giving! We are also actively pursuing financial underwriting from foundations and corporations or in-kind donations of items or services. Do you know of someone that we should contact? Please get in touch with Lonnie Childs, Symposium Co-Chair, at president@npsot.org. All referrals are welcome!

Book Accommodations now! If you have not booked your room reservation at the Emerald Beach Hotel on the bay shore in Corpus Christi, do not delay! Attendees will receive a discounted rate of $89 per night (plus tax) for standard rooms with the reduced rate also made available for the additional nights of October 16 and 20. The discounted rate applies for all reservations booked by October 3.

Reservations for hotel rooms. Be sure that the “group code” field is filled-in with “NPS” in order to receive the discounted rate of $89 per night. You may also call 361.883.5731 to book your reservation via phone. Be sure to mention that you will be a Native Plant Society symposium attendee or mention the “group code” of NPS.